Family Sick-Season Survival Plan

2025-12-01T12:40:35+00:00December 1st, 2025|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Sick Season Survival Guide for Busy Families: Stay Healthy Without ER Visits, Endless Sick Days, or Panic

The holidays are magical—but let’s be honest: this is also prime sick-season.

Colds, flu, RSV, strep… suddenly every child, coworker, and playmate can be a risk fro germ exposure.

For working moms who are balancing meetings, meals, school drop-offs, and holiday events….one sick day can turn into a week of disruption. We know you don’t have time for that.

At Roots Health DPC, our goal is to help your family stay healthy and recover quickly, so you can enjoy the season (and show up at work without stress).

Let’s build your Sick-Season Survival Plan.

✅ 1. Prevention First: What Actually Works

Forget the TikTok immunity hacks. Evidence-based seasonal immunity support includes:

  1. Prioritizing 7+ hours of sleep
  2. Vitamin D + zinc (if appropriate; personalized dosing is ideal)
  3. Daily movement/exercise, even 10–15 minutes
  4. Keeping sugar + alcohol reasonable (immune-sparing)
  5. Hydrating like it’s your job
  6. Handwashing and hand sanitizer
  7. Saline nasal spray or rinse after flights/crowded events

💡 DPC Mom Tip: Make a family “night routine basket”: books, calming night light, humidifier nearby. Sleep is immune medicine.

✅ 2. When Illness Hits: Smart, Calm Response

Instead of using Dr Google or going to urgent care, use a plan:

  1. Reach out to Your DPC Doc
  2. Honey for cough (age > 1)
  3. Acetaminophen/ibuprofen rotation guidelines
  4. Humidifier + gentle steam
  5. Nasal saline + suction for young kids

And remember:

  1. Antibiotics don’t treat viruses…. but can give you diarrhea.
  2. Fever isn’t the enemy; dehydration is. Lots of fluids are key

💚 Bonus of DPC: Same-day access, texting your doctor, rapid testing, and guidance so you don’t waste hours in waiting rooms.

LEARN THE MODEL THAT SAVES PARENTS TIME, MONEY, AND ENDLESS URGENT-CARE VISITS.

 

✅ 3. Know When to Seek Care

Call the doctor (or text, if you’re a DPC member) if there’s:

  1. Breathing difficulty
  2. Dehydration signs
  3. High fever > 72 hours
  4. Ear pain
  5. Lethargy or concerning symptoms

Instead of guessing and overusing urgent care, you get professional reassurance fast.

✅ 4. Working Mom Sick-Season Systems

Success doesn’t happen by chance — it happens by planning. Try these real-life systems:

  1. “Sick bin” ready to grab: thermometer, saline, honey, humidifier tabs, electrolyte packets
  2. Emergency freezer meals for low-energy days
  3. Car kit: tissues, wipes, extra water bottles, spare mask
  4. School note template saved in phone
  5. Backup childcare/partner “sick-day swap plan”

You don’t need to be superhuman — just prepared.

✅ 5. Why DPC Is a Working Mom’s Secret Weapon

Membership benefits that matter most in winter:

✨ Same-day/next-day visits

✨ Text your doctor for guidance

✨ Transparent pricing (no surprise bills)

✨ Avoid urgent care + long waits

✨ Whole-family preventive plan

✨ Partnership — not rushed “in-and-out” care

When your time is stretched thin and your family’s health is everything, having a direct line to your physician is the ultimate mom superpower.

This season, protect what matters most — your health, your energy, and your peace of mind.

START YOUR WINTER WITH A PLAN—AND A DOCTOR WHO HAS YOUR BACK.

You don’t need to juggle it all alone — we’ve got you.

Healthy Holiday Travel

2025-11-24T06:34:35+00:00November 24th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Family Travel & Health — Smart Safety, Sleep, and Screening Tips

Health Doesn’t Take a Vacation

The holidays are around the corner—and so are the road trips, flights, and family visits that make this season special. But along with travel comes new germs, disrupted routines, and the inevitable fatigue that can throw your body off balance.

At Roots Health DPC, we believe staying healthy on the go is essential. Whether you’re flying cross-country or driving to Grandma’s house, here’s your trusted checklist for healthy holiday travel.

Plan Ahead—Your Pre-Travel Health Check

Healthy trips start before you pack your bags. A quick pre-travel check-in can prevent unwanted surprises.

Before you go:

  • Schedule your annual physical if it’s due—especially for kids or older adults.
  • Make sure vaccines are up to date (flu, tetanus, etc.).
  • Refill any medications and pack an extra supply in case of delays.
  • Ask your DPC doctor about travel-specific needs—like altitude sickness meds or motion sickness prevention.

💡 Doctor’s Tip: Pack medications and key documents (insurance card, ID, DPC contact info) in your carry-on—not checked luggage.

Healthcare that fits your life (and your travel plans).

In-Transit Health Hacks

Travel often means tight schedules, irregular meals, and less sleep—but small habits can make a big difference.

For Flights & Long Drives:

  • Stay hydrated (air travel dries you out faster than you think).
  • Move or stretch every couple of hours to improve circulation.
  • Sanitize high-touch surfaces like tray tables and seat belts.
  • Pack healthy snacks (nuts, fruit, granola bars) to avoid sugar crashes.

For Families with Kids:

  • Bring a comfort item or blanket to help them settle.
  • Keep wipes, hand sanitizer, and a mini first-aid kit handy.
  • Plan downtime after arrival—fatigue can make little ones more prone to illness.

Protect Your Sleep & Immune Rhythm

Time changes, jet lag, and unfamiliar environments can disrupt your sleep, which directly affects immunity.

Try these travel-doctor-approved tips:

  • Stick to your usual bedtime routine as much as possible.
  • Get morning sunlight to reset your circadian rhythm.
  • Avoid caffeine after noon in the new time zone.
  • Keep rooms dark and cool for better sleep.

Remember: Sleep is medicine. It helps your body recover, regulate stress hormones, and fend off infection.

DPC Makes Travel Health Simple

With a Direct Primary Care membership, your doctor is just a text or call away—no waiting rooms, no guessing games.

Even if you’re out of town, we can:

  • Review symptoms virtually
  • Advise on local urgent care or prescriptions
  • Refill meds if you lose or run out during travel
  • Provide peace of mind that you’re not alone on the road

Because good care travels with you.

Travel Confidently, Stay Healthy

This season, make your health part of the plan—not an afterthought.

With a little preparation… your holidays can be both joyful and healthy.

Book your complimentary meet-and-greet today to see how DPC keeps you covered year-round—wherever life takes you.

Ready for care that goes wherever you go?

Back to Routine

2025-08-04T13:00:21+00:00August 4th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care|

How Are You Doing—Really?

I just got back from a break that stretched me in the best ways. My family and I traveled to two places I’d never been before: the Azores and Morocco. In the Azores, we saw limitless numbers of hydrangeas in bloom along the roadside and watched sperm whales in all their majestic splendor. We kept forging into new places and spent a night in the Moroccan desert—riding ATVS, eating under the stars, and meeting new people. An experience that made me feel at once small and at the same time very much alive.

It was magical. And unfamiliar. And fun.

But what really struck me was how good it felt to experience something new.

As a doctor, I often talk about the importance of healthy habits and steady routines. But here’s the other half of the story: our brains need change, too. New experiences help us grow, challenge old patterns, and create new neural connections. They wake us up.

Coming home has reminded me of how easy it is to fall back into the busy swirl of work, family, logistics, and caregiving.

So I want to gently ask you a question I’ve been asking myself: How are you doing—really?

Not just “holding it together.” But deep down. Are you fulfilled?

Do you sleep soundly? Do you feel rested, clear, and supported in your body and mind? Are you grateful for the life you are living?

If not—you’re not alone. And you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

At Roots Health DPC, I offer personalized, direct primary care that’s centered around you. No rushed visits. No jumping through insurance hoops. Just thoughtful, comprehensive care built on real connection.

So if you’ve been putting yourself last—maybe this is the nudge to put yourself first again.

Book your complimentary consultation today.

Making Healthcare Easy

2025-06-04T23:43:21+00:00June 4th, 2025|Adults, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership|

What Direct Primary Care Means for Busy Families

If you’re like the rest of us, your calendar is full, your mental to-do list is overflowing, and the last thing you want to do is sit in a waiting room with a sick kid for hours—only to get five rushed minutes with a doctor you’ve never met before.

Interested in how Direct Primary Care works?

That’s why Direct Primary Care (DPC) is a better way to care for your family.

At Roots health DPC, we’re flipping the script on traditional care with a smarter, more personal approach designed to save you time, eliminate stress, and give you peace of mind that your family’s health is always in good hands.

Here’s what busy families love most about DPC:

✅1. Same- or next-day appointments — No long waits. You text or call, and we make it happen.

2.✅ Direct access to your doctor — Skip the front desk. You communicate directly with your physician.

3.✅ No surprise bills — One monthly membership covers all your visits. No co-pays, no deductibles.

4.✅ More time during visits — We don’t rush. We listen, answer questions, and treat the whole person.

5.✅ Care for the whole family — From your toddler’s rash to your cholesterol…. we’ve got you.

Busy doesn’t mean you have to compromise on care.

In fact, the busier you are, the more DPC makes sense. You don’t have time to chase down next steps or wait weeks to be seen. With Roots Health DPC, you get modern high quality care with an old-school feel—where your doctor knows you, calls you back, and shows up for your family.

We’re growing—fast. Join today.

We are enrolling through the end of June. We’re committed to keeping care personalized and unrushed so we keep our patient panel size manageable. Take a spot now before we open our waitlist in July.

Join Now — and experience what healthcare should feel like

Asthma Awareness Month

2025-05-05T13:41:26+00:00May 5th, 2025|Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care|

 Common Misconceptions About Asthma

May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month—a perfect time to clear up common misconceptions about asthma. Many people assume that asthma is only a problem during physical activity or in response to obvious triggers like dust colds or smoke. However, one of the most overlooked signs of asthma is something many parents might not realize—nighttime coughing.

Is Your Child’s Nighttime Cough a Sign of Asthma?

Many parents assume that an occasional cough at night is due to a lingering cold or seasonal allergies. However, persistent coughing—especially at night—can be a key indicator of uncontrolled asthma.

Asthma-related coughing often worsens at night because of changes in airway function, exposure to allergens like dust mites, and the body’s natural circadian rhythms. Unlike a typical cold, which resolves within a couple of weeks, asthma-related coughing tends to persist and can interfere with sleep quality. If your child frequently wakes up coughing, it’s something to discuss with your doctor.

Knoweldge from a trusted source.

 

Common Asthma Myths—Busted!

  • Myth: Asthma is only triggered by exercise.

    Truth: While exercise-induced asthma is real, triggers can also include allergens, heartburn, weather changes, and even stress. Asthma is a chronic condition that requires control to avoid ongoing lung damage.

  • Myth: If my child isn’t wheezing, it’s not asthma.

    Truth: Wheezing is a common asthma symptom, but some individuals—especially children—experience chronic coughing instead. This can be known as “cough-variant asthma.”

  • Myth: My child will outgrow asthma.

    Truth: While some children’s symptoms improve with age, asthma is considered a lifelong condition. Proper management, including identifying triggers and having a personalized care plan, is key to keeping symptoms under control.

  • Myth: Inhalers are only needed during an attack.

    Truth: Many people with asthma use daily controller inhaler medications to prevent flare-ups, not just a rescue inhaler when symptoms get worse. Consistent management helps prevent future attacks.

Convenient, Hassle-Free Care for Busy Families

As a working mom, you already juggle a full plate—so managing your family’s health should be simple and stress-free. At our Direct Primary Care practice, we provide personalized, accessible care without the long waits or insurance headaches. Whether you need a comprehensive asthma action plan, prescription management, or just peace of mind, we’re here to help.

The Healthcare that your Family Deserves

National Doctors’ Day

2025-03-24T12:05:57+00:00March 24th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

The Right Doctor Transforms Your Healthcare Experience

Healthcare isn’t just about treating symptoms—it’s about trust, connection, and having a doctor who truly knows you. On this National Doctors’ Day, we celebrate the importance of the doctor-patient relationship and how it transforms the healthcare experience for both physicians and patients alike.

Why the Right Doctor Matters

In a traditional healthcare system, patients often face long waits, rushed appointments, and surprise bills. By utilizing the Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice model, we create an entirely different healthcare experience.

Discover how personalized, patient-focused care can transform your health

DPC provides:

✅ Direct access to your physician—no middlemen, no delays

✅ Personalized, comprehensive care that focuses on prevention and long-term wellness

✅ No rushed appointments, so you have time to ask questions and get the care you deserve

✅ Transparent pricing—no surprise bills or excessive out-of-pocket costs

A Relationship Built on Trust

When you have a doctor who truly listens, understands your history, and works with you to achieve better health, everything changes. This kind of relationship not only improves patient outcomes but also brings fulfillment to physicians who can focus on what truly matters—caring for their patients.

Experience the difference of having a doctor who knows you.

 

Experience the Difference

This National Doctors’ Day, take the first step toward better healthcare on your terms. Book an initial complimentary session and discover the difference.

Brain Awareness Week

2025-03-10T13:40:04+00:00March 10th, 2025|Community, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Public Health|

Managing Stress for a Healthier Mind

Your brain is at the center of everything you do—from making decisions to managing emotions. But in today’s fast-paced world, stress can take a toll on mental clarity and overall well-being. That’s why, for Brain Awareness Week, we’re focusing on stress management and how you can take proactive steps to protect your brain health.

How Stress Affects Your Brain

Chronic stress isn’t just exhausting—it can shrink areas of the brain responsible for memory and emotional regulation. It also increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and even cognitive decline. But the good news? You can take control.

DPC practice offers personalized strategies and support for your mental clarity.

Personalized Care for a Stress-Free Mind

At our practice, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We offer comprehensive evaluations and customized wellness plans to help you build resilience, reduce stress, and optimize brain function. From lifestyle counseling to tailored strategies that fit your daily routine, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Take the First Step

Your mental well-being matters. Book an initial complimentary session with us to learn more about how stress management can transform your health. If you are looking for expert guidance, we are here as a trusted source for all your healthcare concerns.

Take the first step toward a healthier mind

Stay Fit This Winter

2025-02-24T14:48:41+00:00February 24th, 2025|Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Easy Indoor Workouts & Wellness Tips!

Winter brings cold temperatures and shorter days. But don’t fall out of your regular exercise routine… stay active indoors! We’re here to help you stay fit this winter with simple indoor workouts that keep you moving.

Why Staying Active is Important

Staying active during winter helps boost your mood, strengthens your immune system, improves sleep, and increases energy. Even when it’s cold outside, maintaining a routine will help keep you feeling your best.

Don’t let winter slow you down!

Indoor Exercise Ideas

Cardio:

Jumping jacks, high knees, and burpees can all get your heart pumping indoors.

Climbing stairs is also a great way to get moving.

Strength Training:

Bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, lunges, and planks can be done anywhere.

Use household items like water bottles or backpacks for added resistance.

Yoga and Pilates:

These practices improve flexibility and strength. Follow along with online classes or create your own flow with simple poses like downward dog and child’s pose. Don’t forget the breathwork!

Dance:

Put on your favorite music and dance around your living room for a fun (one of my favorites).

 

Get expert guidance tailored to your lifestyle!

Roots Health DPC: Supporting Your Active Lifestyle

At Roots Health DPC, we’re here to support your fitness journey all year long. Do not overcomplicate it! Stay fit.

Stay active, stay healthy, and enjoy the winter months. Need personalized advice? Schedule a consultation with us today! ❄️💪

Thyroid Awareness Month

2025-01-13T14:58:11+00:00January 13th, 2025|Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Public Health|

Thyroid Disease …

the symptoms and what you need to know

Approximately 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, yet 60% of those affected are unaware of their condition. January is Thyroid Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of understanding thyroid health and recognizing the early signs of thyroid disorders. At Roots Health DPC, we dedicate our time to empowering you in all aspects of your health—including your thyroid.

What is the Thyroid?

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of your neck, and it plays a crucial role in regulating your metabolism and overall health. It produces thyroid hormones that affect almost every organ and system in your body. From controlling your heart rate to managing how quickly food moves through your digestive system, the thyroid is one of the most important endocrine organs in your body.

The Importance of Awareness

  1. Women are 5-8 times more likely than men to experience thyroid problems. In fact, 1 in 8 women will develop a thyroid disorder in their lifetime.
  2. Untreated thyroid disease can lead to serious conditions, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and infertility.

While thyroid problems can be life-long, they can often be managed effectively with proper care. That’s why it’s so important to stay informed and ask questions when it comes to your thyroid health.

We treat the WHOLE person.

What are the Early Warning Signs of Thyroid Disease?

Overactive Thyroid (Hyperthyroidism):

  1. Racing heart rate
  2. Weight loss with increased appetite
  3. Anxiety, insomnia, or nervousness
  4. Muscle weakness

Underactive Thyroid (Hypothyroidism):

  1. Fatigue, sluggishness
  2. Weight gain
  3. Cold intolerance, constipation
  4. Hair loss or depression

Thyroid Nodules or Cancer:

  1. Unusual lump or swelling in the neck
  2. New cough, hoarseness, or swollen glands

Getting Screened: The Importance of Testing

If you’re concerned about thyroid health, screening is key. Blood tests like the TSH test are commonly used to assess thyroid function. TSH levels can serve as an early indicator of thyroid issues, even before symptoms develop. Additional tests, such as T4 and T3 tests, help diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Ask Questions

Your thyroid health matters, and it’s important to feel comfortable asking questions about your health and screenings. At Roots Health DPC, we work with you to ensure that you fully understand your condition and understand all the options for management so that you can make the best decision for your well-being.

Book a FREE Meet and Greet TODAY

This Thyroid Awareness Month, take the first step towards better health by checking in with your physician to work together to keep you healthy, informed, and empowered.

Start with DPC

2024-12-30T14:13:31+00:00December 30th, 2024|Community, Direct Primary Care, Families, Family Medicine, Family Practice, Health Care, Membership, Public Health|

New Year, New Health:

Start Your Wellness Journey TODAY

As we step into 2025, many of us are reflecting on the year ahead and setting new wellness goals. Whether it’s improving fitness, managing stress, or prioritizing preventive care, New Year’s resolutions often focus on taking charge of our health. But how can you ensure these resolutions stick beyond January?

At Roots Health, we believe that health goals are most achievable with personalized care and consistent support. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) comes in. Our innovative healthcare model offers dedicated, proactive care designed to help you stay on track all year long.

Discover how Roots Health DPC can provide personalized care and lasting results.

 

Why Choose DPC for Your Wellness Journey?

In traditional healthcare, visits are often rushed, leaving little room for personalized attention. With DPC, you have direct access to a physician who knows you, your health history, and your wellness goals. This partnership provides the guidance, resources, and accountability you need to make lasting changes.

Setting Realistic Health Resolutions

The best way to achieve your health goals is by starting small and staying consistent. At Roots Health, your DPC physician will work with you to:

  1. Assess your current health and create a personalized action plan.
  2. Set realistic goals and track your progress with regular check-ins.
  3. Adjust your plan as needed to ensure lasting success.

Kickstart 2025 with Roots Health DPC

As we open our doors to new families in January, we’re looking for members who prioritize their health and are ready for real transformation. If you’re ready to commit to your wellness journey in 2025, we’d love to partner with you.

Start your journey with personalized care at Roots Health DPC and make 2025 your healthiest year yet.

Take the first step—schedule your consultation now and start 2025 with confidence!

© Copyright 2020 Roots-MD LLC, dba Roots Health DPC
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